On the eve of the Canadian Grand Prix, it is undoubtedly appropriate that we should be acknowledging Jean Alesi’s 46th birthday today.

The French-Sicilian took his sole Grand Prix victory fifteen years ago at the wheel of a Ferrari, sparking an incredible wave of emotion up and down the pit lane in recognition of one of the most spectacular drivers on the grid (pictured).

Fittingly, the day in question marked his 31st birthday. An enigmatic and mercurial driver, his aura is still felt some ten years after he last set foot in an F1 cockpit in anger.